What Are Composite Veneers?

Dental veneers are thin shells that are placed on the front of the natural teeth to alter the appearance of the smile. Patients who are considering this option for a smile makeover can choose shells made from either porcelain or composite materials. This guide helps patients better understand the composite option.

Composite veneers

The two materials most of these treatments are made from are porcelain and composite. The composite variety comes in direct and indirect types and is manufactured from the same tooth-colored resin used in tooth bonding procedures. 

Direct composite veneers

Direct composite veneers consist of a composite resin material that is adhered directly to the natural teeth. The procedure required to apply this treatment is short and minimally invasive.

Indirect composite veneers

Indirect composite veneers are made from the same material as the direct variety but applied differently. Instead of immediately applying the material to the teeth, custom dental work is manufactured in the dentist's office or a laboratory and applied at a second visit. Temporary dental work is used while the patient waits for the permanent set. The indirect option is more durable than the direct option but usually costs more.

The application procedure

For either option, the dentist begins the procedure by cleaning the teeth and then removing a thin layer of enamel to enhance the ability of the veneers to adhere to the teeth. For the direct option, the dentist then applies adhesive glue to the teeth, followed by thin layers of composite material. A light is used to harden the layers. 

For indirect veneers, after prepping the teeth, the dentist makes a mold of the teeth. The mold is used to manufacture the dental work. Once the shells are completed, the dentist etches the teeth and then applies adhesive, followed by placing the shells. A light is used to harden the adhesive, which strengthens the bond to the teeth. The dentist concludes the process by polishing the dental work. 

Advantages and disadvantages

The primary advantages of composite veneers are lower cost and less time to apply than the porcelain option. Composite models can be used to correct a variety of aesthetic problems, including discolored, misshapen, chipped, cracked, or crooked teeth. 

The main disadvantage of composite veneers is that the material is not as durable as porcelain. The composite material is more prone to chipping or cracking and needs to be replaced or repaired more frequently. The composite options usually last between five and seven years, while porcelain models last 10 to 15 years. 

The lifespan of composite veneers can be improved with a good oral hygiene routine. Patients should brush regularly with nonabrasive toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush, avoid chewing on ice and other hard objects, and reduce consumption of food and beverages that may leave stains.

Conclusion

Composite veneers may be an attractive option for patients looking for a less expensive treatment option than porcelain options. However, because this treatment is less durable, it may need to be repeated more frequently.

Are you considering veneers in the St George area? Get more information at https://www.stgeorgedentalcare.com.

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